French online betting operator Betclic Group has officially exited the Benin market due to disagreements with local authorities over newly introduced tax policies affecting remote gambling. This move highlights the growing regulatory and fiscal challenges faced by international operators in emerging African digital markets.
The withdrawal follows the adoption of Benin’s 2025 Finance Law, which introduced a 25% tax on gross gaming revenue (GGR) calculated before operational expenses. Industry observers note that this tax structure significantly raised the cost of doing business, making it difficult for licensed operators to sustain operations. Consequently, Betclic’s Beninese subsidiary ceased operations in January 2026, effectively ending its presence in the country.
Analysts emphasize that the situation in Benin illustrates the risks associated with sudden regulatory changes in developing gambling markets. While governments aim to boost tax revenues from online gaming, abrupt modifications to tax frameworks particularly those based on gross revenue rather than net profits can deter foreign investment and lead to market exits rather than fostering long-term growth.
In contrast, Betclic continues to thrive in Côte d’Ivoire, where it operates in a more stable and predictable regulatory environment. Since entering the Ivorian market in 2022, the company has secured local licensing and steadily expanded its footprint. Côte d’Ivoire’s tax system, which applies taxes to profits after deducting operating expenses, provides operators with greater clarity and financial sustainability.
Betclic’s success in Côte d’Ivoire has been bolstered by investments in local operations, customer protection measures, and responsible gambling initiatives. These efforts have contributed to the market’s growth and positioned Côte d’Ivoire as one of the more attractive destinations for regulated online betting in West Africa. The contrasting outcomes in Benin and Côte d’Ivoire highlight an important lesson for policymakers across the region: clear, consistent, and commercially viable regulations are crucial for attracting reputable international operators.
Stable tax regimes not only encourage long-term investment but also help governments build regulated markets that protect consumers, generate employment, and promote responsible gambling practices. As African online betting markets continue to evolve, balancing taxation, regulation, and market sustainability will remain key factors in determining which countries will emerge as leaders in digital gaming.
